Category Archives: Random

It’s no secret I’m obsessed with white, gold and grey. There’s something so pure and soothing about a cool, neutral palette. Everything looks good on it or against it, and you can have fun mixing different tones and textures. Thanks to 13 years of living in New York City, and an abundance of overseas work travel, I’ve developed an eclectic but minimalist design aesthetic, and apply it to even the most functional items.

My workspace is no exception, and being tucked behind my couch, I wanted it to feel calm, cozy and creative. These are a few of the small indulgences that make doing work from home so much more inviting.

I took this photo over a year ago, and it’s still one of my favorites. I didn’t really know how to use my camera back then, and I’m pretty sure it’s not in focus, but there’s just something about the rain that makes one feel infinite.

Darkest blue, grey, marine… The windows are freckled with icy wet flakes. I pull out my phone and snap a few photos. I toggle with the filters, sending one into cyberspace with the caption “Munich Sunrise.”

It’s been 4 years since I traded in my Fashion Week stilettos for Texas BBQ and I couldn’t be happier. Hanging with smart techies beats watching starving amazon women trample the runway any day! But there are a few things ladies should know before they head to Austin for the 10-day festival:

Bring chargers with you everywhere. Trust me, you’ll need them. Because of the number of phones around, and the amount of texting you’ll do, all your gadgets will need recharging 2-3 times a day.

Your twitter handle is your new business card (and personal assistant). For those attending Interactive, clean up your feed and tweet what you find interesting. It’s a great way to build your influence and meet cool people. And most importantly, twitter should be your go-to to find out what’s trending and where the best unofficial parties are. Follow the tags #SXSWFree & #SXSWUnofficial to get all the latest info.

Get Screened.This one has a double meaning. First, bring sunscreen. It’s hot in Austin and many of the best events take place outdoors. Second, go to the film screenings. I’ve seen some of the best movies at Sx, so grab some popcorn and recharge with some much needed down and dark time. The Vimeo theatre has a whole lineup of great films this year.

Secret performances.Secret performances and parties will be popping up like crazy throughout the 10-day festival. Follow insider handles on twitter to get the latest updates. Also be on the lookout for password protected parties, like this year’s Wall Street Journal Pool Party.

Get a badge. Even though off-site events are getting bigger and bigger each year, you still need a badge to get anywhere official. Many of the parties will require them for admission. Also, a word from the wise: pick up your badge the day before the conference begins. They’re open until 10pm. Otherwise you’ll wait in a 2+ hour wait – and there’s 0% chance they will let someone else pick up your badge for you. Trust me, I’ve tried.

Leave the stilettos at home. Even at the best parties people will be wearing jeans. You should still dress to impress, but be comfortable. (Comfortable stilettos = win win.)

I’ve always appreciated art. My brother’s an incredibly talented illustrator, and I spent almost three years working with Vimeo, where I watched films every day and attended offline screenings regularly. I was profoundly affected by the ability of motion pictures to move people, as redundant as that sounds. They can make you laugh, cry, cringe, and most of all: think.

But since coming to Shutterstock two years ago, spending countless hours among 24 million images, and then going home to my own DSLR, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the still image.

In the dead of winter when the temps barely break freezing, there are two foolproof remedies I can always turn to. The first is travel, and since I’m off to Austin for SXSW in two weeks and Brazil in eight weeks, I think I’ve got that one covered.

The second is a little retail therapy for some light and bright clothing and accessories. While this is by no means a comprehensive list of my favorite online shops, they are the first place I head when I’m looking to warm my spirits:

Nasty Gal – Started as an ebay store in 2006, this online shop has a fabulous collection of new and vintage items at a range of price points. I’m loving their collection of vintage rocker t’s and these Skulltini loafers ($160).

Asos – No shopping list would be complete without Asos. This amazing mega-store based in the UK has everything from indie brands like Circa Vintage to top French fashion labels like Vanessa Bruno.

True & Co – If you can’t heat up the temps outside, heat up the bedroom with some flirty lingerie. True & Co customizes recommendations and sends you a bunch of items to chose from. Keep what you like, return what you don’t.

Erica Weiner – I’ve been buying Erica Weiner jewelry since she first popped up in a few East Village boutiques in 2006. I’ve gone through 3 handcuff necklaces ($50) and adore her dainty/edgy style. Perfect for a downtown girly-girl.